VR11.1 Digital Controllers Eye Server And Gaming Apps

Groomed for server and gaming applications, the CHL8316 and CHL8318 VR11.1-compliant, digital multi-phase buck controllers debut as the first digital controllers to offer up to eight-phase control. Both devices employ a number of patent-pending digital control techniques to meet over 90% power efficiency levels across virtually all load ranges. The CHL8316 supports up to six programmable interleaved synchronous buck phases. Designers can digitally configure the switching frequency of each phase from 200 kHz to 1 MHz. The device also integrates an a/d converter architecture that responds to transient responses greater than 2,000 A/µs. Other features of the CHL8316 include an external temperature sensor, a VRHOT function, and a current-balancing algorithm that automatically balances current across the IC’s six phases during both dc and transient operation. The CHL8318 controller adds a number of additional capabilities such as custom digital over clocking, VID scaling, offset controls, and load-line adjustment, all of which require no additional external components. Three external temperature sensors support more comprehensive monitoring and control of phase current to balance temperature variations. In addition, the controller adds the same programmable VR HOT and OTP features as well as the automatic thermal balancing capability found on the CHL8316. Prices for the CHL8316 and CHL8318 are $2.49 and $3.29 each/1,000, respectively. CHIL SEMICONDUCTOR CORP., Tewksbury, MA. (978) 640-0011.